Power Tools for the Beginning Wood Worker

Many beginning wood workers are worried that they need to buy thousands of dollars worth of tools to get started. This is not true. There are only a few power tools that I suggest beginners buy to get a good start at wood working. Most are not expensive and should be well within most anyone's budget over time.

The following power tools are what I consider the most essential and most used power tools.

Circular Saw - A circular saw is simple to use and can accomplish many cutting tasks. It is one of the most versatile tools you will buy. A good circular saw will be used primarily to make crosscuts but you can also use it for rip cuts as well as for cutting sheet goods down to manageable sizes. The circular saw becomes even more versatile when used with guide jigs that you can purchase or build in your shop. A circular saw can be expensive when buying a top quality contractor model, for most wood workers you can get into a good saw for $50-$100 depending on your budget.

Drill - A drill is needed for many joinery tasks. You can go with corded or cordless depending on your budget. A good quality corded drill will usually be less expensive than a cordless but can be used for the same tasks. I would suggest starting with a good quality corded drill with 3/8" chuck.

Table Saw - You will find as you progress in your wood working that the table saw becomes the most important tool in the shop. The table saw will become the center of your shop that all other work radiates from. You will want to buy the best saw that you can afford. Take time to learn about the features of different saws so that you can choose one that fits the type of work you do.

Random Orbit Sander - I started with a palm sander but rarely ever use one anymore since discovering the random orbit sander. A power sander is a real time saver when finishing a project. The advantage to a random orbit sander is that it reduces sanding marks that may show up in your finish.

Jigsaw - A jigsaw is great for those projects that call for cutting curved shapes. A jigsaw is a must for pattern wood working such as silhouettes. This is a tool that you will use often so again purchase the best saw your budget will allow.

Router - Routers really make a project stand out. They can be used for everything from decorative edges to joinery when used with purchased and shop made jigs. I recommend a 2 HP model with both a plunge base and stationary base. A router will become one of the most versatile tools for most woodworkers.

These are power tools that most woodworkers will find invaluable in most all projects. I always recommend buying the best you can afford and choosing from brands that you recognize. Always be sure to become familiar with the tool, its operation, and safety rules for safe working. Keep on a regular maintenance schedule and your tools should last you a long time.